MOTS-c
A 16-amino-acid peptide encoded in your mitochondrial DNA that acts as an exercise-like metabolic signal.
The basics
MOTS-c is one of the mitochondrial-derived peptides, small hormone-like signals encoded inside the mitochondrial genome itself. Discovered in 2015, it activates AMPK, the cell's low-fuel sensor, and in mice it improved insulin sensitivity, prevented diet-induced obesity, and improved physical performance in old age.
Exercise raises MOTS-c in human muscle and blood, which makes training the proven way to increase your own.
We review the studies, the potential uses and benefits, and the open questions in our research post, MOTS-c, the Exercise Signal Written Into Your Mitochondrial DNA.
What the evidence looks like
Preclinical. The animal data are striking and the human data are observational. No published randomized trial has given MOTS-c to people.
Why patients ask about it
- Insulin sensitivity and metabolic health
- Exercise capacity and healthy aging
- Mitochondrial support
Good to know
- Compounded MOTS-c is not FDA-approved, and we treat it as investigational.
- Long-term human safety data don't exist yet.
- Competitive athletes should check the current prohibited list before using any peptide.
MOTS-c, the Exercise Signal Written Into Your Mitochondrial DNA
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded inside the mitochondrial genome. It rises with exercise and improves metabolism and physical performance in mice, but no randomized trial has given it to humans.
Read the articleRelated on our formulary
NAD+
Starting at $126
The coenzyme your mitochondria use to turn food into cellular energy. Tissue levels fall with age.
PT-141 / B6
Starting at $98
Bremelanotide, which acts on desire pathways in the brain rather than on blood flow, compounded with vitamin B6.
BPC-157
Starting at $98
A 15-amino-acid peptide derived from a protein in gastric juice, studied for tendon, ligament, and gut healing.
Ask a provider about MOTS-c
Send one form and you're in our new-patient workflow. A Texas-licensed physician reviews your history and goals before anything is prescribed.
Telehealth available to Texas residents only · Cancel membership anytime